One of the most frequently asked questions and also one of the most misunderstood ones. The quick answer to if cats like belly rubs come down to a couple of things: cats that are socialized to enjoy a lot of touch at a young age or specific cat breeds that are bred to be very affectionate, tolerant cats typically find belly rubs pleasant.
Why Do Some Cats Hate Belly Rubs?
The reason why some cats are very reluctant to have their belly rubbed is actually down to a question of science, believe it or not. A series of highly sensitive, microscopic hairs and fibers are on the underside of a cat’s belly and tail. Repeated touching of these highly sensitive areas can lead to a cat becoming overstimulated. The result is that the cat will either move away or exhibit aggressive behaviors such as biting or scratching.
If you think about it, it kind of makes sense. Some of a cat’s most vital organs are situated in the belly area, and having someone, even their owner, come over and vigorously rub them can make a cat uncomfortable and anxious. Cat’s are only reacting to their instincts to guard and protect themselves from harm.
Why Do Cats Expose Their Belly When They See Me?
Cats expose their belly when they see you because It’s a sign of trust and comfort. If you look down to witness your cat rolling onto its back, paws tucked in, and belly exposed, then you should feel proud as it is a sign that you’ve created a relaxed, comfortable environment for them to feel safe in your presence.
Furthermore, it is a sign that your cat feels that it won’t be attacked. Don’t abuse this trust by thrusting your fingers onto the cat’s tummy and vigorously rubbing the belly. You will likely get bitten or scratched and inevitably regret it.
If your cat exposes their belly to you, you should feel humbled. Some cats never fully reach this level of trust and comfortability in their surroundings (if you have this problem, see how to regain your cat’s trust here!), so if your cat does show you their belly, take it as an opportunity to bond.
Should I Touch or Rub a Cat’s Belly When They Roll Over?
This is a question not easily answered with a simple yes or no because every cat has their own distinct personality, and as such, you should consider this. However, as a general rule of thumb, it is not advised to rub your cat’s belly if they roll over. If it is the first time your cat has rolled over and shown their belly, it is not recommended to rub their bellies.
Before you attempt any belly rubs, you should aim to get to know your cat very well. However, if you feel you have reached this level, go slow and be gentle (check out the best methods to interact with your cats here!). Providing small treats while administering the rubs may help keep your cat happy and less likely to become aggressive.
My Cat Showed Her Belly And Then Bit Me!
First of all, you were warned. If a cat exposes their belly to you, it’s worth remembering the advice of Star Wars’ Admiral Ackbar when he declared, “it’s a trap!”. It’s important to remember that while cats are predators themselves, they are not at the top of any food chain, making them also prey. As prey, cats are aware that their belly represents one of their most vital and vulnerable areas.
By exposing the belly, they are giving potential access to their vital organs. If your cat happens to attack you when you rub the belly or go near it, then don’t take offense. You have triggered their natural protection reflex. Never force belly rubs on your cat, especially when they least expect it. Your cat will not appreciate it. It may end up damaging the relationship between you and your cat.
If I Shouldn’t Rub a Cat’s Belly, What Should I Do When They Expose Their Belly?
The next time your cat or another cat exposes their belly or stomach, start with the places that they are the most tolerant. These areas include the forehead, cheeks, back, chin, and behind their ears. When they become more comfortable with your touch – then it’s even possible to build up to more sensitive zones.
If your cat just so happens to enjoy having its belly rubbed, then take it as the ultimate compliment because you are in a league of your own. If your cat allows their belly to be rubbed and enjoys it, then it means they trust you explicitly. How to reach this stage, though? First of all, don’t force it.
How Do I Get My Cat to Like Belly Rubs?
Trust is built up over time, and this goes for you and your cat as much as it does from person to person. You should start by giving your cat lots of love and attention. Start by scratching their head areas, which they will absolutely love. Also, some cats really enjoy brushing. Try to set aside some regular brushing sessions interspersed with head rubs and ear scratching.
If you notice that your cat has rolled over and exposed its belly, then take it as a sign of progress. However, don’t immediately capitalize on the opportunity to get your hands on that belly. Take things slowly. If you notice that with every petting or brushing session, your cat tends to roll over and expose its belly, then it’s a positive sign that the bond between one another is blossoming.
Once this has happened a few times, you should tentatively and slowly stroke the belly doing your best to remember that it is a highly sensitive area. If you manage to get a few gentle rubs in and then your cat paws your hand away, it’s time to back off. You’ve had your lot for today.
Don’t force your cat to do anything it is uncomfortable doing. Repeat the process mentioned above, and you should at some point be in a position in the future where your cat will crave your belly rubs. If, however you never fully reach this stage, then that’s just life. No matter how much you believe you are a connoisseur of belly rubs, it is up to your cat to permit you to do it, and as such, you should respect your cat’s decision.
Are There Specific Cat Breeds That Enjoy/Tolerate Belly Rubs and Touch?
In the animal and natural world, there are no guarantees or certainties. As such, there is no specific cat breed that likes belly rubs outright. This is because the belly area of a cat is highly sensitive and contains some of its most vital organs. There are, however, highly affectionate and tolerant cat breeds where you may stand a better chance of building up a relationship that gives way to belly rubs.
These very tolerant and affectionate breeds are:
- Burmese
- Devon Rex
- Singapura
- Birman
- Ragdoll
- Scottish Fold/Straights
- Abyssinian
- Siamese
- Sphynx
- Russian Blue
